Two-Stroke Engine Lubricants

[cmpbyr01]

Could somebody please enlighten me on what the difference between motorcycle two-stroke oil versus outboard oil's requirements might be? I wasn't sure if it had to do with the engine cooling methods, because I know you get both air and water cooled two-stroke motorcycle engines. Some help on this matter would be appreciated.

CMPBYR01 (Rookie)

 

[romke]

The reason for those different types of oil is indeed the cooling system and the operating temperatures.

Outboard engines tend to run very cold and are used at lower temperatures then most motorcycles. With those lower temperatures mixing of oil and fuel and later separating them again is harder and calls for different types of oil.

There are also outboard oils available that are biodegradable and those readily break down in water - where they usually all end up.